Parashat Miketz 5786

by Rabbi Margie Cella

Pharaoh was disturbed by two dreams he had that he was unable to interpret. When his butler recounted Joseph’s dream interpretation skills from his encounter with him in prison, Pharaoh summoned Joseph to be cleaned up and brought before him. Joseph explained that the dreams foretold seven years of prosperity that would be followed by seven years of famine. Joseph suggested that Pharaoh appoint someone to oversee the ingathering of food during the good years and its subsequent distribution during the bad years, and Pharaoh decided that Joseph himself was the obvious choice. Joseph was appointed vizier of Egypt, second only to Pharaoh. 

After the seven prosperous years ended, the famine became severe in Egypt and beyond. Among those who came to receive food from the vizier of Egypt were Joseph’s ten brothers, who had been sent by their father. As they stood before Joseph, we are told, “Joseph recognized his brothers, but they did not recognize him.” (Genesis 42:8) The verb haker (ה–כ–ר), translated here as “recognize,” can also mean “acknowledge.” This short verse is very telling. Before any reconciliation can take place Joseph must first see and understand that, despite everything that happened, these are his brothers. Additionally, he needs to acknowledge his own culpability in past events. Jacob’s favoritism may have precipitated the strained relationship between him and his brothers, but his tattling on them and regaling them with stories of his dreams severely exacerbated the situation.

Disagreements rarely occur based solely on the actions of one party; there is usually some element of guilt on both sides. True reconciliation can only occur when we can all acknowledge our faults—because it is only then that we can truly recognize our brothers (or sisters).

Oseh Shalom, Maker of Peace, help us to make peace with others by first recognizing ourselves.